Rumi's Masnavi - Thou art not rubbish—far be it from thee! Thou art an object of envy to the pearl: thou hast the best right (to dwell) amidst the waves and the sea.

Thou art not rubbish—far be it from thee! Thou art an object of envy to the pearl: thou hast the best right (to dwell) amidst the waves and the sea.

’Tis the Sea of Unity: there is no fellow or consort: its pearls and fishes are not other than its waves. 2030

Oh, absurd, absurd to make (aught) its partner. Far be it from that Sea and its pure waves!

In the Sea there is no partnership or perplexity; but what can I say to him that sees double? Nothing, nothing.

Since we are the mates of those who see double, O idolater, ’tis necessary to speak in the fashion of him who attributes a partner (to God).

That Unity is beyond description and condition: nothing comes into the arena (domain) of speech except duality.

Either, like the double-seeing man, drink in (absorb and be satisfied with) this duality, or close your mouth and be very silent; 2035

Or (do both) in turns, now silence, now speech: (in the company of the uninitiated) beat the drum like him that sees double, and peace (be with you)!

When you see a confidant, declare the mystery of the Spirit: (if) you see the rose, sing loud like nightingales.

(But) when you see (one who resembles) a water-skin full of deceit and falsehood, shut your lips and make yourself like a (dry-lipped) jar;